As I continue to heal from the stress, the meds, the surgeries, and all the rest, I am taking on more and more of my responsibilities. My life is getting to be less about me and more about work, marriage, and parenting. Not to worry, friends I am still working hard to take care of myself because I know that moms in particular can be kind of bad at that.

The public part of my blog, however, is going to be more about me. Last weekend, a member of my family was verbally attacked in the comments section of an old post, a post that I HAD WRITTEN. My writing has never been about hurting anybody, least of which about exposing my family to abuse.

Consequently, some of my posts will be password protected. I have contacted a number of you privately, through other social media or email with password information. But I don’t know how to contact all of you who have been regular and respectful readers, leaving thoughtful comments over the years. I hope you will understand.

I am so sorry you had that happen! It’s a good reminder that we are all publically exposed when we write our innermost thoughts. I didn’t know we could put passwords on our posts – will keep that in mind for future. I hope your family member is ok xx

That is so disappointing to hear but unfortunately in this day and age it seems to be so prevalent. It is so easy to hide behind a screen and maybe even a fake name – our children, and ourselves if we have a public presence in social media, are facing a different world that can be cruel in so many ways. I will continue to enjoy those posts that pop up in my inbox, as you give voice to feelings and situations that seem to mirror my life after BC. I also enjoy a glimpse of Seattle through your eyes as a reminder to my previous time living there. Thank you. Catherine

How hurtful to share honestly on your blog, always with the hope that authentic sharing will help another — and then have it blow up in your face. There’s always a risk in making ourselves vulnerable. I’m so sorry for whatever you had to deal with in the comments.

what a devastating turn of events for you and for your family member. I am so sorry you’ve had to bear the brunt of hatefulness when you try so hard to share your story and help others with such honesty and compassion. i can just imagine how hurt you have felt – and i hope your family member is okay.

I cannot even begin to imagine how someone could do something like that ~ my heart is sad for you and your family member. I understand the password protection. I would like to stay in touch as well ~ to know you are ok. Big hugs to you both. xo

So sorry that negative comments about the negative comments. I enjoy reading your posts and following you on Facebook. But, I understand the need to protect your family members from these negative attacks. If you feel comfortable, I would like to stay connected.

George Lakoff has retired as Distinguished Professor of Cognitive Science and Linguistics at the University of California at Berkeley. He is now Director of the Center for the Neural Mind & Society (cnms.berkeley.edu).